UPDATE: Victoria Police have launched an urgent manhunt for John Argento, a 47-year-old man wanted for questioning regarding a firebombing incident that took place on Christmas Day in St Kilda East. The incident involved a car displaying a Chanukah mobile billboard, which was set ablaze at approximately 2:50 AM.
During a media briefing on Thursday, Assistant Commissioner Chris Gilbert identified Argento as a person of interest, emphasizing the immediate need to locate him. “He has had residences across Melbourne but is currently believed to be homeless, possibly moving from place to place,” Gilbert stated.
Argento is described as approximately 195 centimeters tall, of thin build, with grey hair and possibly a grey beard. He is known to frequent the St Kilda, East St Kilda, and Caulfield areas but could potentially be in other parts of Melbourne.
The firebombing occurred in the driveway of a residence on Balaclava Road, prompting the evacuation of residents, including young children. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported. Gilbert noted, “Our investigators mobilized quickly and identified a person of interest we want to speak to.”
Authorities are also probing a possible connection between the firebombing and a nearby theft from a vehicle that occurred shortly after the incident. Argento is already wanted on an outstanding warrant for using a stolen credit card and may have been involved in other property crimes.
When questioned about whether the firebombing was racially or religiously motivated, Gilbert indicated that no possibilities are being ruled out. “We are keeping everything on the table until we speak with him and understand the motivations,” he said. “If it is found to be racially or religiously motivated, we will pursue that angle.”
The incident has intensified fears within Melbourne’s Jewish community, occurring less than a week after a terror attack in Bondi and following two synagogue firebombings. Gilbert confirmed that police have met with the affected family to offer reassurance and support.
“There’s no doubt that they are a family who is now in fear,” Gilbert remarked. “Since the events in Bondi, we have certainly escalated our response across the state.”
While there are no specific threats to the Jewish community, Gilbert acknowledged their heightened concerns. “We know that the Jewish community certainly wasn’t feeling safe after Bondi, maybe even more so,” he stated. “Our commitment to the Jewish community is quite strong.”
Police are deploying substantial resources in the area, including officers from Operation Trinity and Operation Park, uniformed members, detectives, and the Public Order Response Team. Gilbert highlighted the inherent dangers of the car fire, stating, “Fires get out of control, and even though it was a car fire, it was too close to buildings and people.”
Authorities urge anyone with information regarding Argento’s whereabouts to contact triple zero immediately or provide information to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or their website. The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated, as police work to ensure the safety of the community.
